Graeme Henderson holding an ivory tusk after discovering the wreck.
Camera IconGraeme Henderson holding an ivory tusk after discovering the wreck. Credit: Supplied/WA Museum

Talk marks wreck find 50 years on

Bryce Luff, Wanneroo TimesWanneroo Times

Instead of keeping it to himself, Graeme Henderson offered it to the WA Government so future generations would have the chance to explore WA’s maritime heritage.

Described as one of the most significant shipwreck finds in Australian history, the discovery of the Gilt Dragon on April 14, 1963 was also the catalyst for WA to develop legislation to protect historic wreck sites.

Filled with silver coins and trade goods such as elephant ivory, the wreck was the target of looters before legislation to protect it was enacted.

The site is now under the care of the Western Australian Museum.

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In celebration of the 50th anniversary, Mr Henderson presented a lecture at the WA Maritime Museum on Friday.

More information can be found at the WA Museum website www.museum.wa.gov.au.